Ardrossan Tourney

Written by Karen Droy

Cumnock RFC P5s travelled to Ardrossan for the first tournament of the season. Although the sun was shining as we arrived the weather broke for Cumnock’s first match against Kilmarnock but this did not deter our boys. They came out all guns blazing from the first whistle. It was clear the efforts in training were paying off with some fantastic passing on display. On attack the boys kept possession of the ball passing frequently and moving up the pitch. Defensively the boys were tackling well but on occasion leaving space for Kilmarnock to break through. The boys achieved their first win of the day Cumnock 5 vs Kilmarnock 3 (Dylan 1, Jack 1, John 2, Kenzie 1)

In our second game against Bishopton we could see the boys had listened to their team talk. Their defensive line had tightened up and they were working on gaining possession of the ball by pushing the opposition into touch. They were also capitalising on Bishoptons mistakes by pouncing when the ball was loose. Tackles were also increasing in number as well improving in technique. We could see the boys gelling as a team with good off loads and fast runners finding space. After a close match Cumnock drew 6-6 with Bishopton (Dylan 3, John 1, Kenzie 2)

By their third game against Ardrossan Cumnock had hit their stride. Tackles were plentiful and their defense more aggressive. By keeping the pressure on Ardrossan, Cumnock were capitalising on their mistakes. In one instance just as Ardrossan looked like they were going to score, Cumnock managed to tackle the player inches short of the try line and turn over the ball. On the attack they then managed to push their way back up the field and score. This lead to Cumnock’s second victory, Ardrossan 3 vs Cumnock 5 (Dylan 2, John 1, Kenzie 1, Tony 1)

The intensity during their final game against Greenock was palpable. Initially the boys looked sluggish and as a result Greenock were able to take an early lead. But our boys rallied and delivered a game that The Glasgow Warriors would have been proud of. With a tight defense, some jinky side steps and blistering pace Cumnock stole the game Cumnock 7 vs Greenock 5 (Aron 1, Dylan 2, John 1, Kenzie 1, Tony 2).

Our coaches as well as parents were left with a feeling of tremendous pride today as our boys played with passion and commitment. The improvement across the squad is there for all to see but a special mention is deserved for Dylan who has stepped up his performance over the last couple of weeks and went on to deserving win Player of the Day for the P5s.

Squad: Aaron, Aron, Dylan, Jack, John, Kenzie, Tony